WICHITA, Kan. (Oct. 13) – The Wichita Thunder, ECHL affiliate of the NHL's San Jose Sharks, AHL's San Jose Barracuda and powered by Toyota, are excited to share that the Wichita City Council has proclaimed October 17, which is the team's home opener this Saturday, as Wichita Thunder Day in honor of the team's 35th Anniversary season.
The announcement was made earlier today at the Wichita City Council Meeting by Wichita Mayor Lily Wu and Thunder General Manager, Joel T. Lomurno.
"I'm so excited and thrilled to be here today," commented Lomurno. "As the mayor said, we have been around for 35 years. We're the sixth oldest minor league hockey team in the country and we're looking forward to a great season. Thank you very much for having us today."
The proclamation, in summary, states that the 2026-27 season marks the 35th Anniversary of the Thunder, commemorating three and a half decades of professional hockey in the Air Capital of the World and honoring the team's enduring legacy.
Mayor Wu honored the players, coaches, staff, sponsors, volunteers and loyal fans that have each played a vital role in establishing the organization's treasured and enduring institution as a part of the city.
In the Thunder’s 34-year history, the team has entertained over five million fans, including 20 sellout crowds and have averaged over 5,000 fans per night during the first 30 years in Wichita.
Wichita has won two league titles that dates back to the team's Central Hockey League's days. The Thunder won back-to-back President's Cup Trophies in 1993-94 and 1994-95. This season will be the 13th year since the Thunder have been a part of the ECHL.
The schedule for the 2026-27 season is out, and we are counting down the days until Opening Night! Join us on Saturday, October 17 as we host the Tahoe Knight Monsters and help us celebrate our 35th anniversary season. Tickets are on sale now. Click HERE to buy for all 36 games.
Season tickets are now on sale for the 2026-27 season. Lock in your seat for all of our 36 home games and catch all the action as we head into our 35th anniversary season. Click HERE to learn more and request a call.
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